Animalia Pet Insurance Review 2025: An Honest Look
Our expert's opinion on Animalia
Animalia offers three accident and illness plans with tiered reimbursement levels and annual limits designed to match different owner priorities and budgets.
Plan options reimburse at 70%, 80%, and 90% with corresponding annual limits of $5,000, $10,000, and $25,000 and annual deductibles shown in pricing examples of $500, $350, and $200 respectively; wellness budgets are not a focal feature of the standard plans. Compared with mainstream competitors, Animalia emphasizes higher top-tier limits and higher reimbursement percentages while using a progressive pricing strategy with lower deductibles on higher tiers to appeal to owners seeking stronger payout potential.
Best suited for owners of young to middle-aged pets who want higher reimbursement levels and are willing to pay mid-to-high premiums for broader limits.
Administered by Animalia Insurance Services Inc. and underwritten by National Specialty Insurance Company, Animalia receives largely positive customer feedback for claims handling, with many reimbursements processed within days and occasional reports of slower invoice processing.
- ✅Tiered reimbursements up to 90%
- ✅High top annual limit ($25,000)
- ✅Lifetime cover specified on declarations
- ✅Lower deductible on highest plan ($200)
- ✅Fast reimbursements often within days
- ✅24/7 tele‑vet services availability
- ✅Straightforward claim submission process
- ❌Pre-existing and congenital condition exclusions
- ❌No prominent dedicated wellness budgets
- ❌Higher premiums for older or brachycephalic breeds
- ❌Limited public financial metrics disclosed
- ❌Occasional slower invoice processing reported
Our expert's opinion on Animalia
- ✅Tiered reimbursements up to 90%
- ✅High top annual limit ($25,000)
- ✅Lifetime cover specified on declarations
- ✅Lower deductible on highest plan ($200)
- ✅Fast reimbursements often within days
- ✅24/7 tele‑vet services availability
- ✅Straightforward claim submission process
- ❌Pre-existing and congenital condition exclusions
- ❌No prominent dedicated wellness budgets
- ❌Higher premiums for older or brachycephalic breeds
- ❌Limited public financial metrics disclosed
- ❌Occasional slower invoice processing reported
Score- ✅Tiered reimbursements up to 90%
- ✅High top annual limit ($25,000)
- ✅Lifetime cover specified on declarations
- ✅Lower deductible on highest plan ($200)
- ✅Fast reimbursements often within days
- ✅24/7 tele‑vet services availability
- ✅Straightforward claim submission process
Why trust Hellosafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance experts review the terms and pricing of insurance policies available in the Canadian market each year, providing you with trustworthy and unbiased analysis.
Thanks to our careful approach, hundreds of thousands of Canadians rely on us every month to help guide their most important financial decisions.
Animalia Guarantees
Animalia offers three core Accident & Illness plans positioned to meet different needs: an entry-level option, a balanced mid-tier, and a higher-limit premium plan. Each plan is structured around a percentage reimbursement (70%, 80%, or 90%) combined with an annual deductible; sample pricing shows annual deductibles of $500, $350, and $200 respectively and annual reimbursement limits of $5,000, $10,000, and $25,000. Lifetime coverage is available and the exact lifetime amount is specified on the policy declarations page for each insured pet.
Coverage is focused on veterinary treatment for accidents and illnesses, with virtual veterinary services included as part of Animalia’s support offering. Reimbursement works on a percentage-after-deductible basis: eligible veterinary expenses are reimbursed at the selected percentage once the annual deductible is met, up to the plan’s annual limit. Premium examples indicate rates rising with pet age, so owners should expect higher premiums for older pets based on the pricing structure shown.
Waiting period provisions apply and are part of the plan terms, and exclusions include pre-existing and congenital conditions. Customers most often cite a simple claims process and fast reimbursements as strengths, while occasional invoice-processing delays have been reported as the main operational drawback.
| Plan 1 | Plan 2 | Plan 3 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Entry-level | Balanced / mid-tier | Premium / high-limit |
| Type of coverage | Accident & Illness | Accident & Illness | Accident & Illness |
| Animals covered | Dogs and cats (pricing examples shown) | Dogs and cats (pricing examples shown) | Dogs and cats (pricing examples shown) |
| Reimbursement rate | 70% | 80% | 90% |
| Annual reimbursement limit | $5,000 | $10,000 | $25,000 |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | Annual deductible $500 (example) | Annual deductible $350 (example) | Annual deductible $200 (example) |
| Age limits for enrollment | Pricing examples for ages 1, 3, 7; enrollment parameters vary by case | Pricing examples for ages 1, 3, 7; enrollment parameters vary by case | Pricing examples for ages 1, 3, 7; enrollment parameters vary by case |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | NC | NC | NC |
| Waiting periods (accident and illness) | Waiting periods apply per plan terms | Waiting periods apply per plan terms | Waiting periods apply per plan terms |
| Lifetime coverage | Yes (amount specified on declarations page) | Yes (amount specified on declarations page) | Yes (amount specified on declarations page) |
| Consultations | Virtual consultations included (tele‑vet services); in-person consults: NC | Virtual consultations included (tele‑vet services); in-person consults: NC | Virtual consultations included (tele‑vet services); in-person consults: NC |
| Medications | NC | NC | NC |
| Hospitalization | NC | NC | NC |
| Surgery | NC | NC | NC |
| Diagnostic tests | NC | NC | NC |
| Dental care | NC | NC | NC |
| Preventive care | NC | NC | NC |
| Alternative medicine | NC | NC | NC |
| Travel coverage | NC | NC | NC |
| Civil liability | NC | NC | NC |
| Euthanasia | NC | NC | NC |
| Death & cremation coverage | NC | NC | NC |
| Theft or loss + search expenses | NC | NC | NC |
| Boarding fees | NC | NC | NC |
Animalia excludes pre-existing conditions and congenital conditions from coverage; claims for illnesses or injuries that showed signs or received treatment prior to the policy effective date are not eligible for reimbursement. Policyholders should also expect exclusions common to pet insurance such as elective or cosmetic procedures and categories of care that are defined as not medically necessary within the policy language.
Key limitations and practical considerations include the fact that lifetime coverage amounts are individualized and shown on the declarations page, reimbursement is based on the selected fixed percentage per plan, and sample pricing demonstrates higher premiums as pets age. While customer feedback highlights a generally efficient claims experience and rapid reimbursements, occasional processing delays have been reported, so owners should allow for administrative processing time when planning for reimbursement.
Animalia Exclusions
Animalia’s core exclusions focus on pre‑existing conditions: any illness or injury for which the pet showed signs, received treatment, or obtained veterinary advice prior to the policy effective date or during a waiting period is excluded.
Congenital and hereditary disorders are also excluded where clinical signs were apparent at birth or before coverage began, which limits support for hereditary conditions without specific prior‑coverage protections.
These exclusion categories are the principal contractual limits on coverage and are particularly significant for owners of young pets or those with early medical events when compared to insurers that offer optional inherited/congenital riders.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | Pre-existing conditions: any condition with signs, symptoms, treatment, or veterinary advice prior to the policy effective date or during a waiting period. |
| Congenital and hereditary conditions | Conditions present at or from birth with clinical signs apparent before the policy effective date or during the waiting period; excluded from coverage. |
| Preventive care and parasites | N.C. |
| Cosmetic, elective & breeding procedures | N.C. |
| Owner-related and behavioral exclusions | N.C. |
| Geographic exclusions | N.C. |
| Non-medical & administrative fees | N.C. |
| Other exclusions | N.C. |
Animalia Prices
Animalia positions itself between mid‑range and premium tiers by offering three clearly tiered plans with rising reimbursement rates (70% → 90%), larger annual limits ($5,000 → $25,000), and lower deductibles on higher tiers, which together drive higher premiums but reduce out‑of‑pocket exposure for owners who need broader protection.
This tiered structure makes Animalia competitive for owners who value higher reimbursement and higher annual caps, while the lower‑cost entry tier keeps options affordable for budget‑conscious buyers; deductible choices materially affect monthly pricing and claim economics, so plan selection should align with expected veterinary needs and risk tolerance.
To help you find the best match between your needs and budget, compare the monthly estimated prices below.
| Profile of the animal | Plan 1 | Plan 2 | Plan 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dog Labrador 1 year | $64.29 | $85.64 | $111.99 |
| Dog Labrador 3 years | $72.28 | $95.02 | $124.66 |
| Dog Labrador 7 years | $96.52 | $129.60 | $170.39 |
| Dog Australian Shepherd 1 year | $61.29 | $80.64 | $105.80 |
| Dog Australian Shepherd 3 years | $77.28 | $95.02 | $124.66 |
| Dog Australian Shepherd 7 years | $95.52 | $129.60 | $170.39 |
| Dog French Bulldog 1 year | $88.69 | $116.76 | $153.60 |
| Dog French Bulldog 3 years | $104.44 | $140.28 | $181.86 |
| Dog French Bulldog 7 years | $134.46 | $181.42 | $237.01 |
| Cat European Shorthair 1 year | $41.07 | $53.10 | $70.31 |
| Cat European Shorthair 3 years | $45.16 | $59.84 | $76.91 |
| Cat European Shorthair 7 years | $52.20 | $70.72 | $90.78 |
| Cat Maine Coon 1 year | $41.07 | $53.10 | $70.31 |
| Cat Maine Coon 3 years | $45.16 | $59.84 | $76.91 |
| Cat Maine Coon 7 years | $52.20 | $70.72 | $90.78 |
| Cat British Shorthair 1 year | $41.07 | $53.10 | $70.31 |
| Cat British Shorthair 3 years | $45.16 | $59.84 | $76.91 |
| Cat British Shorthair 7 years | $52.20 | $70.72 | $90.78 |
Animalia Promo Codes
| Animalia Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe Promo Code | -5% on your quote |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest offers, check our comparison of the best pet insurance providers.
What are the reimbursement amounts with Animalia?
✅ Example 1: Consultation for acute ear infection
Total vet costs: $250 (exam $80 + cytology $50 + medication $120)
Deductible amount to subtract: $200 (this is the annual deductible)
Amount reimbursable after deductible with the Premium plan: $250 – $200 = $50; 90% of that = $45
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $45.
ℹ️ The deductible applies once per policy year; after it’s met, future eligible costs in the same year are reimbursed at 90% until the annual limit.
✅ Example 2: Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) for cruciate ligament repair
Total vet costs: $6,500 (surgery $4,200 + hospitalization $1,200 + imaging $600 + meds $500)
Deductible already met earlier in the year
Amount reimbursed at 90% with the Premium plan: $6,500 × 90% = $5,850
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $5,850.
ℹ️ This payment counts toward the $25,000 annual limit; remaining annual coverage after this claim would be $25,000 – $5,850 = $19,150.
✅ Example 3: Emergency hospitalization for pancreatitis
Total vet costs: $12,000 (ER $1,200 + hospitalization $6,000 + IV fluids $1,200 + imaging $1,000 + labs $800 + medications $1,800)
Deductible amount to subtract: $200 (if not already met)
Amount reimbursable after deductible with the Premium plan: $12,000 – $200 = $11,800; 90% of that = $10,620
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $10,620.
ℹ️ The owner’s out‑of‑pocket is the $200 deductible plus the 10% copay on the eligible amount ($1,180), totaling $1,380; reimbursements reduce your available annual limit.
Assistance Animalia
Animalia’s assistance focuses on accessible clinical advice via tele‑vet channels and prompt claims handling, giving owners quick access to veterinary guidance and fast reimbursements.
Policyholders frequently report that customer service follows up proactively by phone or email to clarify claims, which helps smooth the reimbursement process.
Advance payment solutions and interest‑free installment plans are not indicated as part of standard assistance, so owners should be prepared to settle invoices at the clinic.
There is no clear offering of a dedicated mobile app, an explicit nationwide partner clinic network, or routine international travel coverage, which may limit on‑site conveniences like direct billing or abroad protection.
For routine advice and urgent questions, the tele‑vet and fast claim turnaround are valuable, but owners seeking comprehensive payment or travel assistance may need supplemental solutions.
| Assistance Animalia | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | N.C. | N.C. |
| Payment facilities | N.C. | N.C. |
| Mobile app | N.C. | N.C. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Online claim submission reported by customers. Digital reimbursements are often processed quickly. |
| Emergency vet service | ✅ | Tele‑vet services available via phone, email, or video. After‑hour care is provided through these channels. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | N.C. | N.C. |
| Coverage abroad | N.C. | N.C. |
Digital reimbursements are often processed quickly.
After‑hour care is provided through these channels.
Customer reviews on Animalia
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 4.7/5 (65 reviews) |
Customers most often praise Animalia for a straightforward claims submission process, fast reimbursements that can arrive within days, and attentive customer service that follows up on complex cases; many reviewers recount meaningful financial support for emergency visits and surgeries. Several account holders also highlight clear explanations of coverage and reimbursements, with positive experiences reported when large vet bills were involved.
The most frequently noted concern is occasional invoice processing delay, where payments ultimately arrive but the wait can be longer than expected, and a minority of customers report frustrations during those slower periods. Other complaints are comparatively rare, and when they appear they tend to focus on administrative timing rather than coverage denials.
Here are some examples of customer reviews:
- SM — 22/08/2025 — My baby cat started to have seizures… Thank God I had Animalia! They take forever to process an invoice but once they do they actually cover almost everything.
- L — 01/07/2025 — So glad I bought this insurance plan for both my dogs… my dog needed surgery… it was approved almost right away… quick claim process.
- JS — 05/06/2025 — Extremely satisfied… rushed my 16‑month‑old Frenchie to the ER… I submitted a claim and was reimbursed within 5 days. Easy process and great, professional staff.
Contact Animalia
| Animalia Customer Service | Details |
|---|---|
| To get a quote or subscribe online | You can use the HelloSafe pet insurance comparison tool, choose the plan that suits you, and click to get a quote. Visit Animalia’s website to begin an online quote or enrollment and follow the prompts to select your preferred plan. |
| To request and track a reimbursement | To request or track a reimbursement, contact Animalia by phone at 1-888-688-1608, email service@animalia.pet, or via the customer portal on Animalia’s website. For claim status updates, ask a representative for the claim reference number and current processing status. Specific required documents, submission deadlines, and the reimbursement method (e.g., direct deposit or check): N.C. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Request a certificate of insurance by calling 1-888-688-1608, emailing service@animalia.pet, or submitting a request through the customer portal or written mail to 80 Cedarwood Ct, West Deptford, NJ 08066. Provide your policy number and insured pet details when requesting the certificate; exact processing times and additional documentation requirements: N.C. |
| To contact assistance | Phone: 1-888-688-1608; Email: service@animalia.pet; Postal mail: 80 Cedarwood Ct, West Deptford, NJ 08066. Tele‑vet services and after‑hour care are available via phone, email, or video, though 24/7 availability is not explicitly stated. For underwriting or formal notices, contact National Specialty Insurance Company at the address and phone provided by Animalia. |
| To cancel my policy | To cancel, call 1-888-688-1608, email service@animalia.pet, or send a signed written cancellation to 80 Cedarwood Ct, West Deptford, NJ 08066 specifying your policy number and requested cancellation effective date. Required cancellation details (policyholder signature, forms), notice periods, and refund or proration conditions: N.C. |
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Animalia?
N.C. Contact Animalia at service@animalia.pet or 1-888-688-1608 to confirm whether direct billing or third-party payment is available for your vet. If direct payment is not available, you will typically pay the clinic at time of service and submit a claim for reimbursement. Keep itemized invoices and proof of payment to speed any claim. Ask Animalia about expected timelines for advance payment or direct-pay options.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Animalia?
To cancel, call 1-888-688-1608, email service@animalia.pet, or send a signed written request to 80 Cedarwood Ct, West Deptford, NJ 08066. Include your policy number, policyholder name, and requested cancellation effective date. If mailing, include a signature and a clear statement of cancellation. Ask the representative about any refund or proration; specific notice periods and refund rules: N.C.
What waiting periods apply before coverage starts?
A 12-month waiting period applies for cruciate ligament and meniscal damage as stated in policy details. Other standard waiting periods for accidents or illnesses: N.C. Always confirm the effective date and specific waiting periods that apply to your chosen plan. Conditions presenting signs before the effective date are treated as pre-existing and are excluded.
How do reimbursement rates, deductibles, and annual limits work?
Animalia offers tiered plans with reimbursement rates of 70%, 80%, or 90% and annual limits of $5,000, $10,000, or $25,000 respectively. Each plan applies the deductible first (examples: $500, $350, $200) and then reimburses the eligible remaining costs at the selected percentage up to the annual limit. Submit itemized invoices and proof of payment to process a claim. For a cost estimate on a specific claim, request an estimate from Animalia using your claim details.
What conditions are excluded or considered pre-existing?
Conditions showing signs, diagnosis, or treatment before the policy effective date or during a waiting period are considered pre-existing and are excluded. Congenital conditions present from birth with clinical signs before the effective date are also excluded. Some other exclusions include experimental treatments, cosmetic procedures, and events listed under policy exclusions. Ask Animalia for a clear list of exclusions that apply to your plan.
Is veterinary telehealth or after‑hours assistance available?
Animalia includes tele‑vet services and after‑hour care delivered via phone, email, or video for enrolled members. Availability and exact hours may vary by plan, so confirm access when you enroll. Use the telehealth channel for triage, general advice, and guidance on urgent care decisions. For immediate coverage or claim questions, contact service@animalia.pet or 1-888-688-1608.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Animalia?
N.C. Contact Animalia at service@animalia.pet or 1-888-688-1608 to confirm whether direct billing or third-party payment is available for your vet. If direct payment is not available, you will typically pay the clinic at time of service and submit a claim for reimbursement. Keep itemized invoices and proof of payment to speed any claim. Ask Animalia about expected timelines for advance payment or direct-pay options.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Animalia?
To cancel, call 1-888-688-1608, email service@animalia.pet, or send a signed written request to 80 Cedarwood Ct, West Deptford, NJ 08066. Include your policy number, policyholder name, and requested cancellation effective date. If mailing, include a signature and a clear statement of cancellation. Ask the representative about any refund or proration; specific notice periods and refund rules: N.C.
What waiting periods apply before coverage starts?
A 12-month waiting period applies for cruciate ligament and meniscal damage as stated in policy details. Other standard waiting periods for accidents or illnesses: N.C. Always confirm the effective date and specific waiting periods that apply to your chosen plan. Conditions presenting signs before the effective date are treated as pre-existing and are excluded.
How do reimbursement rates, deductibles, and annual limits work?
Animalia offers tiered plans with reimbursement rates of 70%, 80%, or 90% and annual limits of $5,000, $10,000, or $25,000 respectively. Each plan applies the deductible first (examples: $500, $350, $200) and then reimburses the eligible remaining costs at the selected percentage up to the annual limit. Submit itemized invoices and proof of payment to process a claim. For a cost estimate on a specific claim, request an estimate from Animalia using your claim details.
What conditions are excluded or considered pre-existing?
Conditions showing signs, diagnosis, or treatment before the policy effective date or during a waiting period are considered pre-existing and are excluded. Congenital conditions present from birth with clinical signs before the effective date are also excluded. Some other exclusions include experimental treatments, cosmetic procedures, and events listed under policy exclusions. Ask Animalia for a clear list of exclusions that apply to your plan.
Is veterinary telehealth or after‑hours assistance available?
Animalia includes tele‑vet services and after‑hour care delivered via phone, email, or video for enrolled members. Availability and exact hours may vary by plan, so confirm access when you enroll. Use the telehealth channel for triage, general advice, and guidance on urgent care decisions. For immediate coverage or claim questions, contact service@animalia.pet or 1-888-688-1608.
On the same topic
